10 Expert Tips for a Dry & Itchy Scalp

10 Expert Tips for a Dry & Itchy Scalp

Advice from the Stylists at Arena Creative Hair

If you ticked “dry or itchy scalp” on your consultation form — you're not alone. Scalp irritation is incredibly common and can affect anyone, regardless of hair type or age. At Arena, we take scalp health seriously. A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair, and we’re here to help you get to the root of the issue — literally.

Here are 10 professional tips to relieve irritation, support scalp health, and help you feel more comfortable and confident.

 

Why Might Your Scalp Be Dry or Itchy?

Before we jump into solutions, it’s helpful to understand the potential causes:

  • Over-washing or harsh shampoos

  • Product build-up or clogged follicles

  • Seasonal changes (especially in winter)

  • Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis

  • Allergic reactions to haircare products or colour

  • Stress and hormonal changes

  • Lack of hydration or poor diet

 

 

Here’s what we recommend:

 

 

1. Switch to a Gentle, Sulphate-Free Cleanser

Many shampoos strip the scalp of natural oils, leaving it tight and itchy. Swap harsh formulas for a gentle, moisturising cleanser made with soothing botanicals.

💡 Try: Kevin Murphy Scalp.Spa Wash – a calming, micellar shampoo designed for dry, irritated scalps.

 

 

2. Don’t Wash Too Often

Over-washing can strip your scalp of its natural barrier. Try washing your hair 2–3 times a week, and use a dry shampoo in between if needed.

💡 Kevin Murphy Fresh.Hair is a lightweight dry shampoo that won’t clog your scalp.

 

 

3. Use a Weekly Scalp Treatment

A targeted weekly treatment can make a big difference. Look for masks or scrubs specifically formulated for scalp hydration and exfoliation.

💡 Try: Kevin Murphy Scalp.Spa Treatment – designed to calm, hydrate, and gently exfoliate the scalp.

 

 

4. Check for Product Build-Up

Styling products, silicones, and even some oils can build up over time, blocking follicles and irritating the scalp. A gentle clarifying rinse every few weeks can help detox the scalp without stripping moisture Check our recommendation.

 

 

 

5. Avoid Hot Water

Hot showers feel great, but they can dry out your scalp and skin. Rinse your hair with lukewarm or cool water instead, especially during colder months.

 

 

6. Hydrate from the Inside Out

Water, essential fatty acids (like Omega 3), and a balanced diet all contribute to scalp health. Dehydration often shows up first on the skin — including your scalp.

💡 Tip: If your skin feels dry, your scalp probably is too!

 

 

7. Be Careful With Hair Colour

Allergic reactions or irritation from chemical colour can lead to flaking or itching. At Arena, we use high-quality Kevin Murphy Colour.Me colour, which is ammonia-free and gentle on the scalp — but patch testing and communication are still key.

💡 Always let us know if you’ve experienced a reaction before. We can tailor your colour experience to suit your scalp sensitivity.

 

 

8. Protect Your Scalp in the Sun

Just like the rest of your skin, your scalp can burn! If you’re out in the sun, wear a hat or use a UV-protecting spray to avoid sunburn and dryness.

💡 Try: Kevin Murphy Everlasting colour spray  – with UV protection and conditioning benefits.

 

 

9. Try a Scalp Massage

Regular scalp massage stimulates circulation, promotes natural oil production, and helps relax the scalp. You can do this yourself in the shower or as part of a salon treatment.

 

 

10. Book a Personal Scalp Consultation

At Arena, we offer personalised consultations to help you understand the cause of your scalp issues and build a tailored routine to support your scalp and hair health.

We’ll look at your current routine, check for signs of irritation, and recommend the right products or treatments for your needs — all in a supportive, expert-led environment.

 

 

💬 Final Thoughts from the Arena Team

A dry, tight, or itchy scalp can affect your confidence — and the health of your hair. But you don’t need to live with discomfort. With the right care, it’s absolutely possible to restore balance, hydration, and comfort to your scalp.

Need help choosing the right products? Or want to book a scalp consultation?
 We're here to help every step of the way.

 

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